Weaving the future: Tunku Azizah Heritage Foundation to preserve Tenun Pahang Diraja legacy

Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah says the establishment of the Tunku Azizah Heritage Foundation is not just about preserving Tenun Pahang Diraja – its purpose is far greater. It seeks to ensure the knowledge, skills, and artistry of this treasured heritage are passed down to future generations.

Speaking at the launch of the Pahang Heritage Festival and the foundation at the Pulau Beram Maritime Museum in Pekan, Pahang, on Aug 31, the Sultan of Pahang said he was confident the foundation would serve as a strategic platform, connecting artists, researchers, students, and the wider community to appreciate the state’s cultural heritage together.

The foundation is the brainchild of Al-Sultan Abdullah’s consort, Tengku Ampuan Pahang Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah.

“I believe that with the strong support of all parties, the art of Malay heritage crafts will continue to flourish throughout Malaysia, and particularly in Pahang,” said Al-Sultan Abdullah in his speech.

“Tenun Pahang Diraja is more than a craft; it is a symbol of Malay-Islamic identity and civilisation in this state. Each carefully woven thread represents the patience, refined spirit, and noble character of our society.

“Therefore, the effort to preserve Tenun Pahang Diraja is a responsibility to protect our cultural roots so they are not lost to the tides of modernisation. I hope the values embedded in this weaving art continue to live on in our society, bridging tradition and modernity without compromising its original identity.”

He added that preserving this textile art heritage reflects a love for nature, as flora and fauna motifs are seen in the carvings and dye application of the weaving process.

“More than that, the use of natural dyes shows delicacy and wisdom in selecting natural materials suited to the daily lives of the people of Pahang. Therefore, let us value this highly precious heritage.”

Al-Sultan Abdullah also congratulated the participants and winners of the Tunku Azizah Cup – a competition that uncovers talent and gives recognition to Tenun Pahang Diraja artisans.

The event attracted 103 participants, producing 206 woven pieces. Al-Sultan Abdullah said the strong participation proves that Tenun Pahang Diraja continues to thrive in the hearts of the people, especially the younger generation.

Tunku Azizah, who has worked closely with the Malaysian Prison Department, also intends to offer a second chance to inmates skilled in Tenun Pahang Diraja by providing them with jobs through the Al-Sultan Abdullah Village of Hope programme. She said 17 inmates from the Penor and Bentong Prisons had participated in the Tunku Azizah Cup.

Works from the competition will be on display throughout the Pahang Heritage Festival, held from Sept 1-7.

The festival drew interest from the Sarawak Premier, Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, who toured the Sarawak Pavilion and viewed exclusive arts exhibitions from Turkiye, Laos, Indonesia, and Singapore.

The festival is open to the public. Admission is free.